The Croatian invention that revolutionised fishing gets special coin
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: Branimir Kralj)
Croatian inventor Mario Puratić designed a revolutionary mechanical device for hauling fishing nets, known as the “Power Block”.
Puratić was born in Sumartin, on the island of Brač in 1904. After emigrating to the US in 1929, Puratić worked in steel mills and as a fisherman.
In 1954, he patented the Power Block, which revolutionised fishing by making it easier and faster to haul nets. His invention was introduced into Croatian fisheries in 1963.
This invention enabled faster and more efficient retrieval of fishing nets, reducing the physical strain on fishermen and significantly increasing productivity.
In collaboration with the Croatian Mint, the Croatian National Bank is releasing a new edition in their commemorative coin series, “Croatian Innovators”.
The latest release, dedicated to another great Croatian inventor, is the “Puratić’s Block”.
(Photo: Branimir Kralj)
Available in both gold and silver, these commemorative coins come in various denominations, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail to honour the great inventor and his groundbreaking invention.
Designed by Croatian sculptor Jelena Mavrić Varga, this coin tells a story that may not be widely known but deserves to be shared.
Puratić patented his invention in 1954, and by 1963 it was in use within Croatian fisheries. From then until his death in Santa Barbara, USA, 1993, Puratić would go on to register more than 20 fishing-related innovations with the US Patent Office.
The gold commemorative coin, “Puratić’s Block”, weighs 1 ounce (31.103 grams), carries a nominal value of 100 euros, and has been minted in a limited edition of only 100 pieces.
(Croatian Mint)
The silver commemorative coin, also weighing 1 ounce (31.103 grams), has a nominal value of 4 euros and is available in 1,000 pieces.
If you choose these commemorative coins as a gift for someone close to you or as a personal keepsake, you will be pleased to know that each comes in a presentation box with a certificate signed by the Governor of the Croatian National Bank.
(Croatian Mint)
The gold and silver commemorative coins, “Puratić’s Block”, can be purchased through the Croatian Mint’s online shop or selected retail partners.
